Post-Myelogram Update

Justin · #1 (**permalink**) 03-05-2009, 04:18 PM

Before my hiatus on the forum, I wanted to give everyone an update as to not leave you guys hanging.

About the Surgery: the DSS technology looks very promising to me. From the publications I've read about the system in biomechanic journals, the studies look good and the DSS is accomplishing what it is intended to do (decrease unnatural flexion and extension of the spine). This device looks like it will work well in concert with my 2-level ADR. I know it hasn't been studied extensively, but the DSS design is based on -- unfortunately -- the failures of stabilization devices that are "too rigid" such as the Dynesys (sorry for everything you been through John). A plus in theory to this device is the relatively easy conversion to a "traditional" fusion (the dynamic coupler that is attached to the two screws would just be swapped out).

The surgery would last about 2 hours with ~3-6 day hospital stay. Cost around $26k.

Goal of the Surgery: to remove as much as the osteophyte as possible given difficult access and stabilize the spine minimizing the L4 anterolisthesis. This would relieve the compression on the cauda equina and nerve roots--hopefully reducing/eliminating my bilateral leg pain.

Surgery Date: the surgery is elective. This means the limiting factors are how much pain I can endure and if there are any signs of paralysis.

Recovery / Prognosis: Drs. Fenk-Mayer and Bertagnoli could not give me a definitive on this, which is completely understandable regarding my past surgical history, etc. Dr. F-M did say that I would be able to "take longer walks around the 3 week mark."

The Positives: I had a cervical MRI that came back clean before the new year and the rest of my lumbar spine looks really good. Most of my back problems have been the result of trauma, not widespread "genetic DDD."

$26k is a lot for a poor, extremely in debt student.

Kathy · #2 (**permalink**) 03-05-2009, 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr. J

not widespread "genetic DDD."

$26k is a lot for a poor, extremely in debt student.

Sounds like good and bad news. The good obviously being that you are 'fixable' and the bad being the cost! I have no idea how anyone affords to pay out of pocket. I would have, it there was anyway I could have done it. We already have a 2nd mortgage, so that wasn't an option. And we are just paying off my husband's college loans (he's 37, so that took some time). And we don't have any retirement, because we decided to get out of debt and then save like crazy (which with the stock market the way it is, I'm glad we didn't have crap to lose). The good news is, we are almost debt free! Although, I did have to put our trip to Miami on a credit card; but I'm not going to miss the opportunity for surgery, and a trip is a small cost for ADR.
Anyhow, enough of my money issues, or lack of

I hope you can find a way to get this surgery. I pray that Obama can make stuff happen with our healthcare system and get where we can get affordable, quality, timely healthcare.

Roblin · #3 (**permalink**) 03-05-2009, 09:00 PM

Best wishes Justin with all the decisions you will be making and coming up with the extra bucks. I hope this completely resolves all the bilateral leg pain issues for you.
Bless you abundantly,
Linda

Terry Allen Blackburn · #4 (**permalink**) 03-06-2009, 02:58 AM

I sure hope and pray that this surgery can take place for you Justin. You are owed a decent life for all of the good that you have done for others. I know that life can be unfair though I choose to be optimistic here that something will come through. Maybe Dr. B can do a courtesy surgery for all that you have given him in the past and, the future referrals that he can gain from you when you get out and practice medicine.

You hang in there my friend.

Terry Newton

runner · #5 (**permalink**) 03-06-2009, 08:37 AM

Justin,

Good luck. You have found out what is wrong, now it just has to be fixed. It's not that easy but I am sure you will find a way.
Sounds like you are in good hands.
We never know what life is going to throw at us and I truly believe things happen for a reason and who knows what this reason is but I hope soon that you will get rid of the leg pain.
I will be praying for you and a successful outcome.
Don't get too stressed out (remember doctors need to be cool under pressure).

Take care,

Runner

phylly · #6 (**permalink**) 03-06-2009, 06:23 PM

Justin,
I have good feelings with all the research you have done that this surgery will help you. Finding money when you are so in debt is huge and I hope you are able to find a way for this. Quality of life is so important. I want to see you out of pain. You have been so helpful to everyone on the forum. Is there any way your insurance will pay for out of the country surgery? I wish you the best and I will continue to send goo thoughts your way for a successful outcome.
Phyllis

Justin · #7 (**permalink**) 03-29-2009, 09:36 PM

Well, I haven't been on the forum all that much, but I wanted to give everyone an update.

Over the last 2 weeks, I have been going down hill rapidly. My meds are no longer cutting it, even with increased doses. I've been getting a deep tissue massage once every 2 weeks just to help me study, which has been an absolute delight. (The studying that is

)

I'm going to need surgery soon. Money is the main obstacle--I should "join the club," right?

Anyway, I'll keep everyone posted as I have a feeling that things are going to move real fast sooner than later. Thanks for the continued support--it is most appreciated.